Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, breaks down three of the most talked-about tax changes in the Big Beautiful Bill and what they could mean for your wallet. There’s been a lot of buzz around the new tax bill, especially for middle- and low-income taxpayers. While the bill includes […]
Tax Guide for Independent Contractors
Working as an independent contractor offers flexibility and autonomy, but it also means taking full responsibility for your taxes. Unlike employees, contractors don’t have income or payroll taxes withheld. This guide aims to explain why that matters and how to stay compliant. Understanding Your Tax Status As an independent contractor, you are considered self-employed. This […]
Does the IRS Really Show Up at Your Door? What Field Visits Are (and Aren’t)
If you’re a taxpayer, few things sound more terrifying than hearing a knock at your door, only to find someone claiming to be from the IRS. But does the IRS really show up at your door? In recent years, the Internal Revenue Service has changed its procedures to reduce confusion and increase taxpayer safety. That […]
Taxes on Social Security Benefits
Social Security benefits are a crucial financial lifeline for many retirees. Many taxpayers are often shocked to learn that their Social Security benefits can be taxed by the federal government. Taxes on Social Security benefits are dependent on a variety of factors, making it essential for retirees to understand the rules and implications of Social […]
What is a Tax Settlement?
Tax settlements play a vital role in managing financial obligations by offering individuals and businesses a way to resolve outstanding tax debts with the IRS. This article explores the tax settlement process, detailing the available options, key implications, and important factors to consider. Understanding Tax Settlements Tax settlements, also known as tax resolutions, refer to […]
Ask Phil: Is There A Lien On Your House?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, shares what a federal tax lien is and what steps you can take if the IRS has already filed one against your home. Option One: Pay Your Balance in Full The fastest way to remove a lien is to pay your tax debt […]
What You Need to Know About State Tax Audits
We often discuss IRS tax audits, but you can just as easily be audited by your state. Like an IRS audit, state tax audits can be stressful and intimidating for taxpayers. But what triggers a state tax audit? Is it less severe than an IRS audit? Would a state tax audit result in an automatic […]
Saving for College: 529 Plan Tax Benefits
Saving for education can be overwhelming. However, it can be a little easier with the help of a dedicated education savings account. By starting earlier and saving more efficiently, you can boost your ability to pay for educational costs, whether that’s for your children, a family member, or even yourself. One of the most popular […]
Estate Tax Considerations for Widows: Do You Owe Taxes on Your Spouse’s Estate?
Losing a spouse is one of life’s most difficult experiences. Alongside the emotional toll, many surviving spouses also face the stress of handling estate and tax matters. One of the most common questions widows ask is: “Will I owe taxes on my spouse’s estate?” This article will walk you through key estate tax considerations for […]
What is the Qualified Business Income Deduction?
In recent years, the tax landscape for businesses has undergone significant changes. One notable provision is the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, first enacted under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. This deduction provides a valuable tax break for eligible business owners and was originally set to expire in 2025. However, the […]